BoatUS's David Kennedy elected Chairman of Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association
by Scott Croft 27 Nov 2019 06:09 PST
BoatUS Manager of Government Affairs David Kennedy was elected chairman of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association (AIWA) at the group's recent annual meeting held in Savannah, Georgia. Founded in 1999, AIWA advocates for the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW), often referred to as "America's Marine Highway 95," helping to ensure its future as an integral part of the nation's transportation system. Kennedy, who will serve a one-year term, previously served as the organization's vice-chair and board secretary.
"Thousands of boaters rely on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway every year," said Kennedy. "It plays an important role in the nation's marine transportation system. Whether traveling its length as part of semiannual 'snowbird' migrations or simply enjoying local waters, boaters count on AIWW every day. Keeping the channel maintained to ensure safe, efficient navigation is a good investment for the East Coast, and for the nation as a whole."
The waterway's 1,091-mile-long channel has an authorized depth of 10 to 12 feet, but not all areas meet that standard. Over its 20-year history, AIWA has successfully worked to increase funding for critical dredging projects and address many other needs of this iconic American waterway.
Said AIWA Executive Director Brad Pickel: "Serving a multitude of users, the AIWW provides a safe route for recreational boaters, delivers jet fuel for the Marines and plays countless other roles in the transportation system. As AIWA Chair, David will be an important voice for the waterway in our advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and a sounding board for issues directly affecting waterway stakeholders."